Elections

Goodhue County, MN, has about 32,000 registered voters (2022). Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, with 53% turnout in 2022. Results generally lean Republican: in 2020, Trump won 53% to Biden’s 44%. There are over 35 polling locations countywide. Issues like local taxes, school board decisions, and rural broadband frequently arise. Elections are administered by the County Auditor’s office, with both major parties (DFL and GOP) active locally. Voter registration forms are available online and at government offices, ensuring broad access and participation.

Education, Employment and Housing

Goodhue County, MN, offers 16 public schools, including 4 high schools with graduation rates averaging 93%. Approximately 27.7% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county score an average of 6/10 on GreatSchools. Safety measures include on-site officers and counseling services, contributing to incident rates below the state average. Educational programs feature AP, vocational, and dual-enrollment courses. Adult education opportunities are available through local community colleges and workforce centers, supporting lifelong learning.

As of 2023, Goodhue County, MN, has an employment rate of 64.5%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (22.6%), Manufacturing (16.9%), and Retail Trade (11.7%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13.2%), Production (10.8%), and Sales (9.5%). Around 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23.4 minutes. The majority of residents work within the county, while about 28% commute to neighboring counties, notably Dakota and Olmsted.

Goodhue County, MN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 77%, with median home values around $247,000 in 2023. Median monthly rent is $980. Housing types include single-family homes, historic properties, and some multi-family units, concentrated in neighborhoods like Red Wing, Cannon Falls, and Zumbrota. Recent market trends show home prices rising about 5% annually. Property tax rates average 1.12% of a home's assessed value. Most neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with Red Wing providing riverfront options, while rural areas offer larger lots and farmhouses.

Demographics

As of 2023, Goodhue County, MN, has a population of approximately 47,500. The median age is about 43 years, with 21% under 18 and 19% aged 65 or older. The population is 93% White, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Black or African American, 1% Asian, and 2.5% identifying as two or more races. The gender distribution is roughly 50.5% female and 49.5% male, reflecting a fairly balanced ratio.

County Crime & Safety

Goodhue County, MN, generally maintains lower crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported 429 total crimes, including 32 violent crimes (rate: 1.04 per 1,000 residents) and 397 property crimes (rate: 12.9 per 1,000 residents). The sheriff’s office emphasizes proactive patrolling, community policing, and public engagement to enhance safety. Crime statistics are regularly reported to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, supporting transparency and resource allocation. Overall, Goodhue County is considered a safe region, with crime rates declining steadily over the past five years.